Veterinary
dentistry uses the techniques commonly used in human
dentistry. Our motivation is to provide relief from pain and
persistent infection. Pets who are in pain, and suffering
from the internal effects of an unrelenting infection will not live
as happily as they could, and they will die
prematurely.

Dental Radiography (X-rays)

An x-ray study of the teeth and surrounding structures is
an essential part of a complete oral evaluation. We have portable
dental x-ray equipment that can provide the high detail required
for the complete evaluation that you expect and your pet
deserves.

Periodontics (Gum
Treatments)

Periodontal (gum) disease is the most common infectious
disease of dogs and cats. We strive to maintain oral health through
counseling and instructions for home care. Using modern veterinary
dental procedures, we offer professional dental cleanings and, when
needed, advanced periodontal procedures to help restore health to
unhealthy mouths.

Orthodontics

(Braces)

Misaligned or crooked teeth can cause pain,
irritation, tooth loss, and infection. Often, orthodontic
techniques provide the simplest way to resolve these problems. We are also available to
provide pet-breeding clients with bite evaluations that will help
them identify genetic abnormalities in prospective breeding
animals.

Endodontics(Root Canals)

Pets
commonly break their teeth, and often the break is severe enough to
expose the pulp (nerve). Such teeth are painful and always become
infected. In some cases, the injury doesn’t break the tooth but
causes bleeding in the pulp, resulting in discolored teeth. Broken
and discolored teeth can usually be salvaged by an endodontic (root
canal) procedure. The only other option is extraction. The larger
and more important the tooth, the greater is the need for root
canal therapy.

Prosthodontics (Crowns)

This
branch of dentistry deals with the construction of appliances
designed to protect weakened teeth or to replace missing teeth or
other oral structures.

Oral Orthopedics

Injuries or
degenerative conditions of the bones of the jaws are common. These
bones are unique in that they contain teeth and have canals for
nerves and blood vessels. Broken bones in the jaws cannot be
treated the same way as broken legs. Bone pins, plates, and screws
used on legs may kill teeth and result in dental pain and
abscesses. Dental techniques and materials allow for simpler,
noninvasive treatment of oral injuries with no additional dental
damage.

Oral Surgery

Regrettably,
dogs and cats develop a number of benign and cancerous tumors that
require aggressive surgery for a cure or to provide long-term
control. Although some of these surgeries require the removal of
jaws or portions of jaws, cats and dogs adjust very well , and can
go on to live long and happy lives. The earlier these problems are
detected the better the long-term outlook.

Speaking

Dr. Taylor
is available to speak to veterinary organizations, veterinary
technician groups, breed and kennel clubs, and cat fancier clubs
about any aspect of veterinary dentistry. The more informed that
pet owners, fanciers, and veterinary groups become about
veterinary dentistry, the more pets will be relieved of unnecessary
pain and debilitating infection.